Over N$30 million invested in combating GBV

The European Union (EU) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have committed over N$30 million to combat gender-based violence (GBV) in Namibia.

According to EU ambassador to Namibia Beatriz Martins, GBV remains unacceptably high, especially in some regions where rates soar between 28% and 42%.

Martins was speaking at the signing ceremony and contribution agreement of the ‘Gender Equality/Combating Gender-Based Violence’ project yesterday in Windhoek.

“This project aims to reach, in a concerted manner, these vulnerable women and also the broader society, including parents/guardians; law and policy makers; service providers from the health, social, education and the judiciary and law enforcement sectors of both the government and civil society; community leaders and many more,” she said.

The contribution agreement with the UNFPA has been carefully designed with clear objectives and a comprehensive approach to address the pervasive challenges faced by women and girls in Namibia, Martins added.

“The EU is pleased to contribute 1,4 million euro (approximately N$28 million) through this contribution agreement. The overarching goal of the programme is to contribute to the reduction of GBV in targeted regions of Namibia by 2027,” Martins said.

These upcoming actions have been developed jointly with the UNFPA Namibia country office and the Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare, drawing insights from national health and GBV information systems, as well as recent studies highlighting the scope, scale and gaps in addressing GBV, said Martins.

“Gender equality is not just a moral imperative – it is a prerequisite for sustainable development and Namibia has shown commitment to closing its gender gap and addressing violence, as illustrated for instance in Namibia’s laws.

“Nevertheless, there remains much more to do to address gender inequality, in areas such as political representation, access to education and employment opportunities,” she added.

Also present at the event was UNFPA assistant representative Loide Amkongo who said the event represents a beacon of hope, initiating a partnership aimed at addressing one of the most pressing issues affecting the lives of individuals, particularly women and girls in Namibia.

She added that the event signifies an important visibility milestone of a crucial partnership between the EU and UNFPA, especially during this period when we observe 16 Days of Activism against GBV.

“The EU protects women and children from GBV through legislation, practical measures and financial support. Therefore, the EU’s generous contribution of 1,4 million euros with UNFPA’s commitment of 140 000 euros for 36 months underscores a shared dedication to combating GBV at both the national and subnational level,” she added.

According to Amkongo, the strategic implementation of this programme will significantly impact communities, specifically in the Zambezi, Ohangwena, Khomas, Kunene and Omaheke regions.

Amkongo said these regions have been targeted to address critical gaps identified in the National Gender Policy and the National GBV Plan of Action.

“By engaging both the government and civil society organisations as implementing partners, this programme aims to create a comprehensive and inclusive approach to tackling GBV. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to the EU for their commitment to uplifting the Namibian people, with a special focus on the well-being and empowerment of women and girls,” she added.